(Cuba) One of the first to start a mini-genre of its own: the idea, the search, the collection of history, the collaboration, the concert story.

(Mongolia) You've got to love the premise: American blues musician decides he MUST learn Tuvan throat singing, and sets out to Mongolia to do so.

While this isn't my personal favorite, it's a beautifully shot documentary about the "gypsy music" of the Roma all over the world--from Europe to Egypt to India. There’s no voice-over narrative; the music, rather, is the script. A must-see if you're interested in this genre of music. Amazon no longer carries the VHS; it’s being scalped. (The US-format DVD isn't out yet--but the PAL one is.)

(South Africa) This inspiring story of Ladysmith Black Mambazo features concert footage and interviews. Nominated for an Academy Award.

(India) This two-part presentation combines documentary-style coverage of two years in Shankar’s life as he travels between India and America and archive footage from the ‘30s through the '60s. Includes collaborations with Western musicians such as George Harrison, Coltrane, and Yehudi Menuhin, as well as a performance with his daughter in 2002.

(Mali) Not a classic documentary, but still interesting look into "KarKar" Traore's music. The story goes that, after his wife died, he moved to Paris, working in construction and singing on weekends at his immigrant shelter. Years later, everyone thought him dead--until a music producer discovered an old recording. Ali Farke Toure and other well-known musicians tell their stories.

(Earth) One of my all-time favorites. Not your standard documentary whatsoever. There's no dialogue, except for one chapter in which a song/dance (well, I have no idea what to call it) is performed, but do NOT be deterred! The story and the music is absolutely stunning. The only way I can sum it up: A Day in the Life of God. Music ranges from tribal to Andean to Dead Can Dance!